Important development: Masachusetts Senator Barbara A. L'Italien has submitted a bill at the requet of one of her constituents to prohibit the use of Native American Mascots by any public school in Massachusetts. With over 40 public schools using race based stereotypical caricatures as Native American team identities, which are inherently racist, this is a very significant step forward

Here is the text:Bill SD.1119SECTION 1. Chapter 71 of the General Laws is hereby amended by inserting after section 97 the following new section:-

Section 98. Prohibition on the use of Native American mascots to by public schools in the Commonwealth.

(a) As used in this section, “Native American mascot” means

a. A name, symbol, or image that depicts or refers to an American Indian tribe, individual, custom, or tradition that is used by a public school as a mascot, nickname, logo, letterhead, or team name

b. The use of the team name “Redskins, “Savages,” “Indians,” “Indianettes,” “Chiefs,” “Chieftains,” “Braves,” or “Redmen.”

(b) As used in this section, “public school” means a school or program operated by a school district, and education service district, or a public charter school.

(c) The use of any Native American mascot by a public school in the Commonwealth is prohibited.